Richard Ganjavi author page

Richard Ganjavi biography

Richard Ganjavi is a British primary school teacher and children’s author. His first published novel, Whispers of a Purple Butterfly, was released by Independent Publishing Network in 2026.

Whispers of a Purple Butterfly is a children’s novel about bereavement, identity and the experience of being a surviving twin. It follows Lucy, a ten-year-old girl who has grown up knowing that her twin sister died before birth. Football provides an important focus in Lucy’s life, but events take an unusual turn when her headteacher encourages her to keep a journal and replies begin appearing in purple ink. The book combines a contemporary family story with elements of mystery and the recurring image of a purple butterfly.

Ganjavi has discussed the book and its treatment of baby loss in interviews and on the A Gift for Grief podcast. The novel has also been included among resources recommended by organisations supporting families affected by baby loss. It is intended for children aged approximately eight to twelve and approaches bereavement through the perspective of a child trying to understand both loss and her own identity.

Whispers of a Purple Butterfly was published in paperback by Independent Publishing Network on 15 July 2026.